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Welcome, George Balock!

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Place of Work ? Example: Studio, College, Gallery, Museum, ...)

Lansdale, PA USA

I am a .... Example: Student, Maker, Educator, etc.

My interest in wood, or at least working with my hands is probably genetic as my father built, from the ground up, the house I grew up in. I became interested in woodturning in 1997 and I am primarily self taught.

I believe that there are three things that define my art—The Materials, The Forms and The Finish.

The materials I prefer to work in are best described as "unusual wood". Woods that have been attacked by bugs, fungus and wind often find their way onto my lathe. These woods are often destined for the fireplace before I get them. Often I will accent these pieces with tropical hardwoods that add a final touch that finishes the piece.

I draw inspiration for the forms of my work from nature. The completed form says something about me and how I perceive the natural world.

I believe that wood is meant to be touched. Therefore the finish on my art is critical to me. The warmth of the wood, and tactile experience with my art is of the utmost importance to me.

Your website, DIRECT flickr or DIRECT facebook links where your work can be seen.

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George Balock's Blog

I am currently the president of the Bucks County Guild of Craftsmen here in Pennsylvania, USA. I wrote this article for our newsletter to get involvement by our membership. I'm posting it here, because this site is about community. Thanks Brigitte for a great site!

“ART plays no clear role in our culture.”
“ARTISTS have little direct contact with their audience”
“ART MAKING is indulged, but rarely rewarded.”
Ted Orland in “The View From The Studio Door”

Please add a few images of your work and your thoughts to the blog/discussion topics that are already posted. Of course, if there is something else you'd much rather talk about, please add that to the site so that the rest of us can chime in.

I really hope you will enjoy being with this network and find the exchanges interesting and fun. The more you put into it, the more you will get out of it, for sure.

If there are ever any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to email me anytime. I will do my best to be of help.

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